JAVI Gracia says he would like to sign Gerard Deulofeu permanently, but concedes the Spaniard’s future could ultimately be out of Watford’s control.

Deulofeu joined Watford on loan in January and impressed in the four games he played before suffering a stress fracture.

With the 24-year-old unlikely to return to Barcelona, where opportunities have been at a premium, this summer, his signature will be highly sought after once the transfer window opens.

Gracia is eager that the winger remains at Vicarage Road, but admits there are various elements of his future which he has no say on.

“First of all I would like to see him back playing with us this season and I think this is the most important thing at the moment,” Gracia said.

“After we can speak about next season and for me he is a very good player at a very good level.

“I would like him to be with us here next season, but it does not depend only on if I want him or not, it depends on the club, the player and the offers he has, so we will see.”

Deulofeu started life at Watford in flying fashion and found the net in a 4-1 defeat of Chelsea on his home debut.

He looked set to be a key part of Gracia’s team before injury struck and is only now approaching fitness.

Gracia is hopeful a player who has been training with the first team for the past few weeks will play a part in proceedings before the season reaches its conclusion.